Mirzapur Gym Conversion Racket: A shocking case of technology-driven exploitation has emerged from Uttar Pradesh’s Mirzapur district, where police have dismantled a gym-based syndicate accused of targeting Hindu women through AI-generated obscene content for blackmail and forced religious conversion.
The illegal operation, which investigators say had been running since 2021, came to light earlier this month after two young women lodged separate complaints with the police. Their statements revealed a well-organised network that combined manipulation, digital forgery, and psychological pressure to exploit victims.
According to police officials, the accused operated a chain of gyms that served as the primary hunting ground for victims. Women who joined the gyms for physical training were gradually befriended by trainers and owners, who gained their trust over time. Once personal photos or videos were accessed, the accused allegedly used artificial intelligence tools to morph the material into explicit and obscene content.
These AI-edited videos were then used to threaten the women with public exposure on social media platforms. Investigators said the victims were coerced into complying with the gang’s demands, which included sexual exploitation and pressure to change their religion.
Six people have been arrested so far in connection with the case. Among them is Irshad Khan, a 40-year-old GRP head constable posted in Bhadohi, who allegedly provided logistical support and protection to the syndicate. The other accused include gym owners and trainers Mohammad Sheikh Ali Alam (31), Faizal Khan (34), Zaheer (32), Shadab (36), and Farid Ahmed (28).
Police identified Farid Ahmed as the prime accused. He was arrested following a police encounter after allegedly opening fire on a police team during a raid. Officials said mobile phones recovered from the accused contain dozens of AI-generated obscene videos, chats, and other digital evidence, which are now central to the investigation.
Investigators also revealed that five gyms — KGN-1.0, KGN-2.0, KGN-3.0, B-Fit, and Iron Fire — were under the syndicate’s control. Four of these gyms were reportedly run by three brothers and their brother-in-law, indicating a closely linked operation. Mirzapur District Magistrate Pawan Kumar Gangwar has ordered all five gyms to be sealed until February 27.
SP/DIG Mirzapur Somen Barma said the case represents a dangerous misuse of technology rather than a routine blackmail operation. He stated that the accused systematically exploited women psychologically and socially by weaponising AI tools to fabricate content that appeared real and damaging.
Digital forensics teams are currently analysing seized devices to assess how widely the AI-generated content was circulated and whether similar methods were used in other districts. Police are also investigating possible links beyond Mirzapur, suggesting the network may have operated on a larger scale.
Authorities believe the number of victims could be significantly higher than the 30 identified so far. Many women, including married victims, are hesitant to report the crime due to fear of social stigma, family backlash, and reputational harm.
Police have urged any affected women to come forward, assuring them of confidentiality, protection, and full legal support. Officials have indicated that further arrests are likely as the investigation progresses and more digital evidence is examined.